Here's how to use rainchecks for savings

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Savannah

It has happened to all of us at one time or another. There is a great sale going, and it's the last day of the sale.

We dash off with our coupons in hand to take advantage of the great buys, and arrive at the store only to find the shelves empty. The trip appears to be a complete loss, and we kick ourselves for not shopping earlier.

Rain checks keep that sad scenario from happening.

A rain check is a voucher that the store issues to lock in the sale price in the future. You'll be able to buy the item when it is back in stock at the sale price.

Always ask for a rain check if you miss a sale item. The only exception will be if signs are posted in the store or on the flyers saying "Sorry No Rain Checks" or "While Supplies Last."

Things to look for on a rain check:

• The number of items allowed to be purchased at that price (this is not always specified)

• Expiration date. Be sure to use the rain check before it expires. Many rain checks do not have an expiration date, and sometimes you get lucky and find an even better coupon to pair with the sale.

• If there is a store promotion such as a gift card, Extra Care Bucks or Register Rewards, ask them to list them on your rebate. (Each store's policy on rain checks may vary.) I recently tried to purchase bodywash at CVS, and they were completely out. I was offered a rain check (I didn't even have to ask!). They included the Extra Care Bucks on my rain check and it does not expire.

• Read your rain check carefully: Some will only tell you to go to customer service to get the actual voucher.

How to use a rain check:

• When you get to the register, simply hand the cashier the rain check and he'll ring the items up at that price.

Send your tips or questions to Savvy Shopper Michelle Rubrecht at savvyshopper@savannahnow.com or post them to Facebook at Savannah Savvy Shopper.